Jonathan M. Bryson (1798) and Demaris Griffin of Haywood, Macon and Jackson Co, NC

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I (Marty Grant) am a 1st cousin 7 times removed to Jonathan M. Bryson.

Special thanks to Lawrence Wood (1937-1997), and Ethel Updike (1899-?) for their various write-ups on this family. Lawrence Wood shared a Family Bible Record for this family, which was quite informative. There is another Family Bible record, probably written by a grandchild which contains some questionable information. I'm not sure, but I think it was probably written long after Jonathan's death. I'll make reference below to both records. I'll include a transcript of these records at the end of this section.

Jonathan M. Bryson was born 10Aug 1798 (per Family Bible). The "other" record gives Jan 18, 1777, which is clearly wrong. I can't even imagine where it comes from. Jonathan's census records all show ages more compatible with a 1798 birth year. For example, in 1850 he was 53 (born ca 1796/97), and in 1860 he was 61 (born ca 1798/99) and in 1870 he was 71 (born ca 1798/99).  His 1830 and 1840 census entries give his age showing him born ca 1790/1800. So this clearly shows that the 1798 birth date is more likely to be accurate.

His "M" middle initial might be for "Malone" or "Maloney", after his mother's family.

Jonathan was probably born in Buncombe Co, NC, though that is not certain. His 1850 census entry shows Macon County, NC as his birth place, but there was no Macon County in 1798, nor any white settlers in that area at that time. His 1860 and 1870 entries only list North Carolina as his birth place. His Family Bible record does not list a birth place. The "other" record shows that he was born in "Billy Rock, SC", but that is highly questionable. First of all, no one has ever been able to find this place, and secondly, census records consistently give his birth state as North Carolina. The correct answer to this seems to be North Carolina. I'm not sure what county, but Buncombe seems most likely. However, this depends on who Jonathan's parents are. Several of Jonathan's children reported on the 1880 census that their father was born in South Carolina. This contradicts his own census entries, but is of interest! This strongly suggests that his children thought their father was born in South Carolina, probably because they knew he was raised there.

Jonathan M. Bryson is probably a son of John Bryson (bef 1755) and Jane Malone. I say "probably" because the proof is somewhat dubious. First of all, Lawrence Wood mentioned this in his book, that some of Jonathan's grandchildren claimed his father was named "John" and that they were related to the other Macon and Jackson County Brysons. Secondly, the "other" family record (that I mentioned before) lists Jonathan's parents as "John Bryson" and "Jennie Mellon". This would be a great source if we could rely on it. So many facts given in that particular record are wrong, so this too may be incorrect. On the other hand, it does list Jonathan's wife's parents names correctly.

There are a couple of problems with including Jonathan in the John Bryson/Jane Malone family. One is that in 1798, John Bryson's family was in Pendleton Dist, SC, not in North Carolina. Of course they may have gone briefly into North Carolina by 1798, but returned to Pendleton by 1800. Another problem is that John Bryson's 1824 Estate Division only names two heirs, both daughters. Now this does not prove that there were no other heirs, for heirs are often left out of estates for various reasons. Perhaps they had sold their interest in the estate to the other heirs, and that record was not included in the estate file, but recorded elsewhere, or not recorded at all.

None of the evidence for or against including Jonathan in the John Bryson/Jane Malone family is compelling enough to convince me one way or the other. It is entirely possible that Jonathan is indeed a son of John Bryson of Pendleton Dist, SC, but I'd prefer more evidence. Some other possibilities are discussed below in the 1800, 1810 and 1820 census analysis sections. I have found no public record that associates Jonathan M. Bryson with any other Bryson (except his own children). However, in the 1830 census he was next door to the Henry Wood family. Henry was married to Margaret Bryson, daughter of James H. Bryson (1740/50), and in 1840 Jonathan was just a couple of houses from John Bryson (1787), who is also thought to be a son of John Bryson and Jane Malone. These two facts do seem to suggest that Jonathan is part of the same Bryson clan.

Jonathan M. Bryson would have been 1 or 2 years old by the time of the 1800 census, so he should be enumerated in the "under 10" age group. Since he was born in NC, we would expect to find him in NC, though that isn't necessarily the case. Numerous Bryson households in 1800 included apparent sons in this age group. Since no names were given, it is impossible to tell which was this Jonathan, but we can speculate. In Buncombe Co, NC, John Bryson (1769) had 2 sons this age, though both are accounted for; James H. Bryson (1740/50) had 2 sons this age, only one of whom is identified. This does leave room for Jonathan, but I don't think he belongs in this family, though it is certainly possible. This same son was still with James in 1810, though then his age shows a birth of ca 1790/94 which does match Jonathan. Samuel Bryson (1754) had one son that age, but he is accounted for. In Iredell County, Andrew Bryson (1752) had one son under 10, but he is accounted for. In Surry County, John Bryson (1753) had one son under 10 who is not identified. James Bryson (1745) had one son that age, but he is identified already.

So, in North Carolina in 1800, only James H. Bryson (1740/50) of Buncombe, and John Bryson (1753) of Surry had males Jonathan's ages, who are not otherwise identified. "John" of Surry may be an option, since Jonathan's descendants said his father was named "John". However, these Brysons are not closely related to the Macon / Jackson County Brysons as far as we can find.

In South Carolina there were several Brysons in the 1800 census with males Jonathan's approximate age. Ignoring all those except in Pendleton District, I find that Daniel Bryson (1756) had one son that age, though he is identified already. John Bryson (bef 1755) had one son that age, who is not otherwise known.

So based only on the 1800 census records for Pendleton Dist, SC, we see that only John Bryson (bef 1755) is a suspect. (For the record, there were two men named Robert Bryson in Fairfield Dist, SC with sons that age in 1800, and there was a William Bryson in Laurens Dist, SC with a son that age, but I don't suspect any of them for various reasons).

For the 1810 census, Jonathan M. Bryson would have been about 11 or 12 years old, so he should have been enumerated in the 10-15 age group (born ca 1794/1800). In Buncombe Co, NC, only William M. Bryson (c1750) had an apparent son that age, though that son is accounted for. None of the Haywood County Brysons had a son that age, though the listings for John Bryson (1769) and William Bryson (1775/80) were illegible. John Bryson (1770/74) of Lincoln Co, NC had one son aged 10-15. Although the name matches, this John left a Will (1846) and did not mention Jonathan as one of his heirs. John Bryson (1753) of Surry had one apparent male Jonathan's age in 1810. In Pendleton Dist, SC, John Bryson (bef 1755) had one son that age, who is not otherwise known.

To sum up, an analysis of the 1800 and 1810 census entries show that Jonathan M. Bryson (1798) could very easily be a son of John Bryson (bef 1755) and Jane Malone of Pendleton Dist, SC. The only other strong possibility would be John Bryson (1753) of Surry Co, NC, though that does not seem too likely.

Jonathan would have turned 21 in 1819, so he could have left home before the 1820 census. For that census he should have been enumerated in the 16-25 age group (born ca 1794/1804). None of the Buncombe Brysons had a male this age with them. John Bryson (1769) in Haywood had two sons that age, but they are already identified. James N. Bryson (1795) had a male that age with him in Haywood, but it couldn't be his son. It certainly could be Jonathan living with his cousin James, though there is no way to tell. James H. Bryson (1740/50) had one apparent son that age also in 1820, however, he is already identified. John Bryson in Pendleton had no sons that age in 1820. Daniel Bryson (1756) had 2 sons that age, but they are identified.

Since Jonathan was over 21, he could have been anywhere in 1820, so it doesn't matter that he was not home with John Bryson.

He was in Haywood County, North Carolina by 1822, for on 14 Mar 1822, Jonathan M. Bryson obtained a marriage bond in that county to marry Demaris Griffin, daughter of John Griffin. William Berry was bondsman. Demaris was born June 1806 (per Family Bible). Her parents names were not given in that record, but the "other" record gave her parents as John Griffin and "Cynthi Calbert" (Cynthia Calvert or Colvard).

They lived in that part of Haywood County that later became Macon, for Jonathan Bryson signed the 1828 Petition of Haywood County residents requesting the formation of a new county. His family was listed as containing 1 male over 21, 2 males under 21, and 4 females. (This would be Jonathan, sons John and Hugh, and wife Demaris and daughters Elizabeth and Narcissa, and one other female, possibly his widowed mother-in-law).

In 1828, Macon County was formed from Haywood County.

On 15 Sep 1828, J. M. Bryson and Bennett Smith witnessed a deed from Thomas Hayne of Haywood to Lewis Vandyke of Macon. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book A page 159 from "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, 1991. * Note: All deeds mentioned hereafter from books "A" through "E" are taken from this book.)

In 1830, Jonathan Bryson was listed on the Macon County census, but not near any of the other Brysons. He was listed next to Henry Woods who was married to Margaret Bryson (1784) daughter of James H. Bryson (1740/50). This certainly strongly suggests that Jonathan was indeed related to the rest of the area Brysons. If he is a son of John Bryson, as we think, then Margaret was his 1st cousin. An older woman was living with them, either his widowed mother-in-law (Cynthia Colvard Griffin) or his own widowed mother perhaps?

1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)

1830 Macon Co, NC pg 11 Jonathan Bryson 2100010000000-1100100100000
Analysis:
1 Male(s) 30-39        (1790-1800)	Jonathan M. BRYSON (1798) s/o John & Jane
1 Male(s) 5-9          (1820-1825)	Byers BRYSON (1823) son
2 Male(s) 0-4          (1825-1830)	Hugh Barton BRYSON (1828) son
					William F. BRYSON (1830) son
1 Female(s) 50-59      (1770-1780)	Cynthia COLVARD Griffin (1770/80) mother-in-law, 
					^ --> gone by 1840
1 Female(s) 20-29      (1800-1810)	Demaris GRIFFIN Bryson (1806) wife m 1822
1 Female(s) 5-9        (1820-1825)	Elizabeth BRYSON (1824) daughter
1 Female(s) 0-4        (1825-1830)	Narcissa BRYSON (1826) daughter

The 1835 Congressional Voter list shows J. M. Bryson voting in Franklin Precinct, Macon County.

On 27 May 1837, Jonathan M. Bryson sold 160 acres to John R. Allman. The land was described as "crossing county road". Witnesses were Jacob B. Trammell and Samuel Stanford. I haven't found where he obtained this land. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book A page 433).

On 18 Jan 1839, J. M. Bryson and Burton K. Dicky witnessed a deed from John H. Kirkland to Jesse R. Silar. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book B page 835)

On 22 Apr 1839, Jonathan was mentioned in a deed where the Sheriff sold land based on a court judgment. Eli McKee, Esquire, High Sheriff of Macon County, sold to Jesse R. Siler and David R. Lowry, for $4000, 2,323 acres on Iotla Creek in judgment against James Truitt, Joseph Welch, Robert Hall, J. M. Bryson, and B. S. Britton for $1,634.49 recovered by Isaac T. Avery. Witnessed by James Robison and H. G. Woodfin. Apparently Jonathan was involved in a business arrangement (Land speculation, probably) with these other men and got into debt. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book C page 1195)

Jonathan was still in Macon for the 1840 census just a couple of houses from his probable brother John Bryson (c1787), another suspected son of John Bryson Sr (bef 1755).

1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)

1840 Macon Co, NC pg 150 J. M. Bryson 1021001000000-1211010000000
Analysis:
1 Male(s) 40-49        (1790-1800)	Jonathan M. BRYSON (1798) s/o John & Jane
1 Male(s) 15-19        (1820-1825)	Byers BRYSON (1823) son 
2 Male(s) 10-14        (1825-1830)	Hugh Barton BRYSON (1828) son --> Hd 1850
					William V. BRYSON (1830) son
1 Male(s) 0-4          (1835-1840)	Marcus W. BRYSON (1839) son
1 Female(s) 30-39      (1800-1810)	Demaris GRIFFIN Bryson (1806) wife
1 Female(s) 15-19      (1820-1825)	Elizabeth BRYSON (1824) m 1841
1 Female(s) 10-14      (1825-1830)	Narcissa BRYSON (1826) daughter m 1846
2 Female(s) 5-9        (1830-1835)	Martha BRYSON (1832) daughter
					Margaret BRYSON (1834) daughter
1 Female(s) 0-4        (1835-1840)	Eliza Salome BRYSON (1836) daughter

On 8 Nov 1841, J. M. Bryson and E. Dowdle witnessed a deed from Powell Stoval to Mary Elizabeth Cunningham. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book C page 1384).

On 4 Apr 1845, J. M. Bryson sold 160 acres to J. R. Allman. Witnessed by John Cline and William Allman. This seems to be Jonathan selling his share of a joint land grant (see deed dated 30 Dec 1845).. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book D page 1844).

On 30 Dec 1845 John R. Allman, assignee of Jonathan M. Bryson, received a 160 acre State Land Grant. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book E page 32).

On 15 Jun 1846, J. M. Bryson and J. R. Allman witnessed a deed from William H. Thomas of Haywood to Captain N. J. Jarrett. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book E page 144).

Jonathan and family were listed on the 1850 census in Macon County. No other Bryson families were nearby.

1850 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 336B  House/Family #  293/ 299  - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp

BRYSON JONATHAN M     53 M W SADLER                 400 MACON CO, NC         1796/1797
BRYSON DEMARIS        44 F W                            WILKES CO, NC        1805/1806
BRYSON WILLIAM F      20 M W SADLER                     MACON CO, NC         1829/1830
BRYSON MARTHA         18 F W                            MACON CO, NC         1831/1832
BRYSON MARGARET       16 F W                            MACON CO, NC         1833/1834
BRYSON SALOMA         14 F W                            MACON CO, NC         1835/1836
BRYSON MARCUS W       12 M W                            MACON CO, NC         1837/1838
BRYSON RICHARD M J    10 M W                            MACON CO, NC         1839/1840
BRYSON CARAN           8 F W                            MACON CO, NC         1841/1842
BRYSON ANDREW          3 M W                            MACON CO, NC         1846/1847

In 1851, Jackson County was formed from Macon, including the area where most of the Brysons lived, including Jonathan M. Bryson.

They were listed on the 1860 census in Jackson County, but not close to any other Brysons.

1860 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1860 JACKSON CO, NC Page 278   House/Family #    5/   5 --  Twp   P.O.

BRYSON J M            61 M W SADDLER           1500   300 NC                   1798/1799
BRYSON D              55 F W                              NC                   1804/1805
BRYSON M W            20 M W SADDLER                      NC                   1839/1840
BRYSON R M J          19 M W SADDLER                      NC                   1840/1841
BRYSON K              14 F W                              NC                   1845/1846
BRYSON A V            12 M W                              NC                   1847/1848

They were still in Jackson for the 1870 census, listed in Webster Township. They were next door to Daniel G. Bryson (1821) son of Daniel G. Bryson (1787).

1870 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1870 JACKSON CO, NC Page 300   House/Family #    7/   7--WEBSTER Twp WEBSTER P.O.

BRYSON J M            71 M W SADDLER                600   300 NC              1798/1799
BRYSON DEMARIS        64 F W KEEPING HOUSE                    NC              1805/1806
BRITT ELLEN           10 F W                                  NC              1859/1860

According to others, Jonathan M. Bryson died in 1877 in Jackson County. The "deaths" section of his family record is missing, so it is not listed there. The "other" family record shows that he died in "1882", but I was unable to find him on the 1880 census, so the "1877" date sounds more likely.

I did not find Demaris Griffin Bryson on the 1880 census. Her death is given in Updike as "1880" so she may have died before the census taker came around that year.

Bryson Family Record (Jonathan M. Bryson - Demaris Griffin Record # 1)

This Bible Record was given to me (Marty Grant) by Lawrence E. Wood (1937-1997) in the 1980's. He wasnt sure if it was the actual Bible record of Jonathan M. Bryson himself, or one of his children, but it looks to me like it was his, but continued in use after his death, so some of the entries were written by one of the children.

I only have two pages, the "Births" page, and the "Marriages" page. If there is a "Deaths" page, I have not seen it. I do not know who owns the original Bible Record, for Lawrence Wood did not tell me, or if he did, I dont recall.

Based on a comparison of this Bible record to the available public records (marriages, census, etc.), it seems to be very accurate, so it is probably safe to assume this was Jonathan M. Brysons own Bible Record, or a copy made by one of the children.

BIRTHS

J. M. Bryson was born the 10th of August 1798
Demaris Bryson was born in June 1806
John Bryson was born the 17th of Jany 1823
Elizabeth Bryson was born 17 march 1824
Narsisa Bryson was born the 20th of Janry 1826
Hugh Burton Bryson was born the 2nd of Jany 1828
William Bryson was born 15 march 1830
Martha C. Bryson was born 9 of march 1832
Margratt Jane Bryson was (torn) the 13 of may 1834
(Torn)ndexter was born (torn) 7th A.D. 1824 (written in different hand)
Eliza Salome Bryson was born 2nd of oct 1836
Marcus Weldon Bryson was born the 22nd of July 1839
Richard M. Johnston Bryson was born the 8th of octr 1841
Kierran Happock Bryson was born the 2nd of April 1844
Andrew Van Polk Bryson was born the 15 of June 1847
Nebraska Dee Montaloa Poindexter was born Nov 18 1856 (different hand writing)
Thomas Lenser Bryson was born Dec 3 1856 (different handwriting, same as entry above)

MARRIAGES

J. H. L. Moore and Elizabeth Bryson was married the Sept 1841
H. B. Bryson and Elizabeth Angell was married the 30th of Sep 1847
J. M. Crawford and Martha C. Bryson was married on the 20th of Febury 1851
William Bryson and C. M. Moore was married 27 Jul 1854
F. Poindexter & M. J. Bryson was married 20 Feb 1855
Wm Davice and Kirren Hapauck Bryson was married the 8th of October 1862
M. W. Bryson and Mary E. Conley was married 19th Nov 1865
Richard M. J. Bryson and L. J. Fisher was married the 3rd day of Nov 1867
Andrew V. P. Bryson and Cannie Conley was married July 29 1877 (different handwriting begins)
Andrew V. P. Bryson & M. E. Snider was married Jan 11 188-
Freddie Pender Bryson was born Jun 29 1888
M. E. Bryson was born Dec 19 189-
Dan W. Bryson was born Oct 3 1886 (different handwriting begins)
Mark Hasling Bryson was born Dec 22 1887
Jesse Eugene Bryson was born Aug 8 1890

End of Record

Bryson Family Record (Jonathan M. Bryson - Demaris Griffin Record # 2)

This "Family Record" was given to me (Marty Grant) by Lawrence E. Wood (1937-1997) in the 1980's. He told me that it was not an original Bible record, and was probably written by someone several generations removed from Jonathan M. Bryson, so therefore the data is not highly reliable. My own research into this record agrees with that conclusion.

The record shows many names, most of which seem to be accurate, so the compiler of this record obviously was personally acquainted with the family. However, none of the children had birth dates listed, so it is not a complete family record. I do not know who owns the original record, though it is presumably a descendant of Jonathan M. Bryson.

This record also contains an interesting (and wrong) record about the birth and death of Jonathan M. Bryson. First of all, it lists his birth date as Jan 18, 1777, which is wrong. He was born 10 Aug 1798 as proven by his own Bible Record, and which agrees with his age as given on the various census records.

Secondly, it lists birth place as "Billy Rock, S.C.". If such a place actually existed (no one has been able to find it), it is unlikely that Jonathan was born there, for his 1850, 1860 and 1870 census records list his birth place as North Carolina. Of course it is possible that the census records are wrong, but it is worth pointing out.

Thirdly, the record lists Jonathan M. Brysons death date as "1882". I was told by Lawrence Wood that Jonathan M. Bryson actually died in 1877. The 1880 census seems to confirm this, for he was not listed that year.

Fourth, the record lists Jonathan M. Brysons marriage to Demaris Griffin in "1819" in Haywood Co, NC. This is wrong, for their marriage record is on file and is dated 14 Mar 1822.

I can only conclude from all these errors is that this "Family Record" was not a contemporary record, and was compiled by someone who was probably a grandchild of Jonathan M. Bryson or even more distantly connected.

FAMILY RECORD

GRAND PARENTS

Fathers Father: John Bryson Born SC, Died SC (no dates)
Fathers Mother: Jennie Mellon Born SC, Died SC (no dates)
Mothers Father: John Griffin Born , Died (no dates)
Mothers Mother: Cynthi Calbert Born , Died (no dates)

PARENTS

Father: Jonathan M. Bryson Born Jan 18 1777, Billy Rock, SC. Died 1882 Whitaker, NC
Mother: Demaris Griffin (No dates or places) maried in 1819 Haywood Co, NC

CHILDREN

NAMES / BORN / MARRIED

John Bryson 1820 Franklin, NC Soldier in North Carolina (cant read rest)
Betsy / Hile Moore
Narcisas / Marvin Angle
Burt / Elizabeth Angle
William / Synthy Moore
Martha / John Crofferd
Salome / Wilson Tritt
Margret / Frank Poindexter
Marcus / Elizabeth Conley
Richard J / Sallie Fisher
Kerren H / William Davis
Andrew V. P. / Ellin Snider?

End of record


Children

Jonathan M. Bryson and Demaris Griffin had 12 children as proven by their Family Bible record, and by the various census records.

John Byers Bryson (1823)

Elizabeth Ann Bryson (1824)

Narcissa Bryson (1826)

Hugh Burton Bryson (1828)

William Virgil Bryson (1830)

Martha Ellen Bryson (1832)

Margaret Jane Bryson (1834)

Eliza Salome Bryson (1836)

Marcus Weldon Bryson (1839)

Richard M. Johnston Bryson (1841)

Caran Happock Bryson (1844)

Andrew Van Polk Bryson (1847)


John Byers Bryson was born 17 Jan 1823 (per Family Bible) in Haywood (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). He may be named "John" after his grandfather, and "Byers" after an earlier ancestor (many Brysons had "Byers" as a middle name, suggesting some sort of connection to the Byers family).

Byers was apparently with parents on the 1830 census (age 5-9, born ca 1820/25) and apparently home in 1840, aged 15-19 (born ca 1820/25).

On the 1850 census, Byers was listed three houses from his parents with the Samuel Hooper family. I don't know if they were related, or if he was just a hired laborer.

1850 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 336B  House/Family #  290/ 296  - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp

HOOPER SAMUEL         28 M W FARMER                2000 HAYWOOD CO, NC       1821/1822
HOOPER DELILA         18 F W                            MACON CO, NC         1831/1832
HOOPER JONATHAN       16 M W                            MACON CO, NC         1833/1834
HOOPER ELIZABETH      32 F W                            MACON CO, NC         1817/1818
HOOPER JAMES          60 M W                            UNKNOWN              1789/1790
BRYSON BYERS          25 M W                            MACON CO, NC         1824/1825

John Byers Bryson was not listed on the 1860 census in western North Carolina as far as I could find. There was no marriage found for him in Macon or Jackson County, nor was his marriage mentioned in the Family Bible Record.


Elizabeth Ann Bryson was born 17 Mar 1824 (per Family Bible) in Haywood (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). 

Elizabeth was apparently with parents on the 1830 census (age 5-9, born ca 1820/25) and apparently home in 1840, aged 15-19 (born ca 1820/25).

On 2 Sep 1841, "Jaheal Moore" obtained a marriage bond in Macon County to marry Elizabeth Bryson. William B. Morgan was bondsman. Johial H. L. Moore was born 17 Jun 1814 in Haywood Co, NC, son of James Moore and June Stevenson.

This family resided in Franklin Township of Macon County.

See their page for additional information.


Narcissa Bryson was born 20 Jan 1826 (per Family Bible) in Haywood (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Narcissa was apparently with parents on the 1830 census (age "under 5", born ca 1825/30) and apparently home in 1840, aged 10-14 (born ca 1825/30).

On 7 Nov 1846, Marvel Angel obtained a marriage bond in Macon County to marry Narcissa Bryson. Lewis Marvel Angel was born 1 Jan 1820 (per tombstone) in Buncombe Co, NC (per 1850 census). I don't know who his parents are.

They were listed on the 1850 census in Macon County, but not near any of the Brysons. They were next door to James Angel (c1794). Could he be Marvel's father? ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.

I was unable to locate them on the 1860 census

In 1870 they were in Quallatown Township of Jackson County. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.

In 1880 they were living in Jackson County in Webster Township. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.

Narcissa Bryson Angel died 21 Apr 1898, and Marvel died on 26 Mar 1921. They are buried at Oak Ridge Methodist Church Cemetery in Macon County.


Hugh Burton Bryson was born 2 Jan 1828 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Hugh was apparently with parents on the 1830 census (age "under 5", born ca 1825/30) and apparently home in 1840, aged 10-14 (born ca 1825/30).

Hugh B. Bryson married Elizabeth Angel in 1847. See their own page for additional information.


William Virgil Bryson was born 15 Mar 1830 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). 

William was apparently with parents on the 1830 census (age "under 5", born ca 1825/30) and apparently home in 1840, aged 10-14 (born ca 1825/30).

William was home with his parents for the 1850 census ("William F." age 20, born Macon).

On 27 Jul 1854, William Bryson obtained a marriage bond in Macon County to marry Cynthia Moore. Cynthia N. Moore was born ca 1825/26 (per 1850 census) in Lincoln Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). She is a daughter of Wallace Moore and Sarah Creasman.

They were listed on the 1860 census just a few houses from his brother Hugh B. Bryson.

1860 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1860 MACON CO, NC Page 294   House/Family #  929/ 947 -- FRANKLIN Twp  FRANKLIN P.O.

BRYSON WILLIAM        30 M W SADDLER                  270 MACON                1829/1830
BRYSON CYNTHIA N      33 F W                              LINCOLN              1826/1827
BRYSON THOMAS L        5 M W                              MACON                1854/1855
BRYSON MARGARET J      3 F W                              MACON                1856/1857

By 1870, they had moved into neighboring Clay County, NC where they were listed in Hayesville Township. They were the only Brysons in Clay County that year.

1870 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1870 CLAY CO, NC Page 452   House/Family #   47/  47--HAYESVILLE Twp HAYESVILLE P.O.

BRYSON WILLIAM        40 M W SADDLER                300       NC              1829/1830
BRYSON SINTHA M       42 F W KEEPING HOUSE                    NC              1827/1828
BRYSON THOMAS         15 M W AT HOME                          NC              1854/1855
BRYSON INDIANA        12 F W                                  NC              1857/1858
BRYSON SALLIE D        8 F W                                  NC              1861/1862
BRYSON VIRGINIA        2 F W                                  GA              1867/1868

By 1880, they family had moved to Banks County, Georgia and were listed there on that census. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.


Martha Ellen Bryson was born 9 Mar 1832 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Martha was apparently with parents on the 1840 census (age 5-9, born ca 1830/35). Martha was home with her parents for the 1850 census ("Martha." age 18, born Macon).

Martha Bryson married John M. Crawford on 20 Feb 1851 in Macon Co, NC. This date is from the Family Bible. I did not find a public record of this marriage in either Macon or Jackson County.

I have no additional information on this branch of the family.


Margaret Jane Bryson was born 13 May 1834 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Margaret was apparently with parents on the 1840 census (age 5-9, born ca 1830/35). Margaret was home with her parents for the 1850 census ("Margaret." age 16, born Macon).

On 20 Feb 1855, Francis Poindexter obtained a marriage bond in Macon County to marry Margaret J. Bryson. Francis Poindexter was born ca 1823/24 in Surry Co, NC (per 1850 census).

They were listed on the 1860 census in Macon County. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.


Eliza Salome Bryson was born 2 Oct 1836 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Eliza was apparently with parents on the 1840 census (age "under 5", born ca 1835/40). Eliza was home with her parents for the 1850 census ("Solomon." age 14, born Macon).

On 8 Jul 1858, A. W. Tritt obtained a marriage bond in Jackson County to marry E. S. Bryson.

They were listed on the 1860 census in Jackson County, next door to her parents. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.

I didn't find them in 1870, but their daughter Ellen (aged 10) was living with Eliza's parents. Perhaps Eliza and A. W. had died.


Marcus Weldon Bryson was born 22 Jul 1839 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Marcus was apparently not with parents on the 1840 census.

Marcus was home with his parents for the 1850 census ("Marcus W." age 12, born Macon), and still home in 1860 ("M. W." age 20, born NC).

On 18 Nov 1865, M. W. Bryson married Mary E. Conley in Jackson County.

I did not find them in 1870.

In 1880 they were listed in Webster Township of Jackson County. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.


Richard M. Johnston Bryson was born 8 Oct 1841 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

Richard home with his parents for the 1850 census ("M. J.." age 10, born Macon), and still home in 1860 ("R. M. J." age 19, born NC).

Richard married Sarah J. Fisher on 3 Nov 1867 (per Family Bible), presumably in Jackson County.

They were listed on the 1870 census in Webster Township.

1870 census abstract: (Explanation of this census)
(Note: The dates at the end of each line are not part of the original census, but are approximate birth years based on age)
1870 JACKSON CO, NC Page 302B  House/Family #   37/  37--WEBSTER Twp WEBSTER P.O.

BRYSON R J            28 M W SADDLER                360   100 NC              1841/1842
BRYSON S J            22 F W                                  NC              1847/1848
BRYSON T M             1 F W                                  NC              1868/1869

They were listed on the 1880 census in Webster Township. Brother Andrew was with them. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.


Caran Happock Bryson was born 2 Apr 1844 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

She was home with her parents for the 1850 census ("Caran" age 8, born Macon), and still home in 1860 ("K." age 14, born NC).

On 7 Oct 1862, William Davis obtained a marriage bond to marry Carranhapproe Bryson.

I don't have their 1870 census entry yet.

They were in Jackson County, in Hamburg Township for the 1880 census. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.


Andrew Van Polk Bryson was born 15 Jun 1847 (per Family Bible) in Macon (now Jackson) Co, NC (per 1850 census). 

He was home with his parents for the 1850 census ("Andrew" age 3, born Macon), and still home in 1860 ("A. V.." age 12, born NC).

I did not find him on the 1870 census, unless he was the "Andy" Bryson, age 18 living with another family. This Andy was listed as black, so probably not the same person.

On 27 Jul 1877, Andrew V. P. Bryson, age 30, married Candace C. Conley in Jackson County. She must have died before 1880, for she was not with Andrew on the 1880 census. He was with his brother Richard that year.

The Family Bible shows that he married M. Ellen Snyder on 11 Jan 1885, presumably in Jackson County.


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1. Jonathan M1 Bryson , born 10 Aug 1798 in Buncombe Co, NC; died 1877 in Jackson Co, NC, son of John Bryson  and Jane Malone .  He married on 14 Mar 1822 in Haywood Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC) Demaris Griffin , born Jun 1806 in Wilkes Co, NC; died 1880 in Jackson Co, NC, daughter of John Griffin  and Cynthia Colvard .

 

      Children of Jonathan M Bryson and Demaris Griffin were as follows:

      2          i      John Byers2 Bryson , born 17 Jan 1823 in Haywood Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1850 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).

+    3          ii      Elizabeth Ann2 Bryson , born 17 Mar 1824 in Haywood Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1880 in Macon Co, NC.  She married Johial H L Moore .

+    4          iii      Narcissa2 Bryson , born 20 Jan 1826 in Haywood Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died 21 Apr 1898 in Macon Co, NC; buried in Oak Ridge Meth, Macon Co, NC.  She married Lewis Marvel Angel .

+    5          iv      Hugh Burton2 Bryson , born 2 Jan 1828 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died 1874/80 in GA or MO.  He married Elizabeth M Angel .

+    6          v      William Virgil2 Bryson , born 15 Mar 1830 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1880 in Banks Co, GA.  He married Cynthia N Moore .

      7          vi      Martha Ellen2 Bryson , born 9 Mar 1832 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  She married on 20 Feb 1851 in Macon Co, NC John M Crawford , born 1829/30 in Macon Co, NC.

+    8          vii      Margaret Jane2 Bryson , born 13 May 1834 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  She married Francis Poindexter .

+    9          viii      Eliza Salome2 Bryson , born 2 Oct 1836 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1860 in Jackson Co, NC.  She married A Wilson Tritt .

+    10         ix      Marcus Weldon2 Bryson , born 22 Jul 1839 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died 29 Dec 1927 in Jackson Co, NC.  He married (1) Mary Elizabeth Conley ; (2) Mary Naomi Weaver .

+    11         x      Richard M Johnston2 Bryson , born 8 Oct 1841 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  He married Sarah J Fisher .

+    12         xi      Caran Happock2 Bryson , born 2 Apr 1844 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1880 in Jackson Co, NC.  She married William B Davis .

+    13         xii      Andrew Van Polk2 Bryson , born 15 Jun 1847 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  He married (1) Candace D Conley ; (2) M Ellen Snider .

 

Generation 2

 

3. Elizabeth Ann2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 17 Mar 1824 in Haywood Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1880 in Macon Co, NC.  She married on 2 Sep 1841 in Macon Co, NC Johial H L Moore , born 17 Jun 1814 in Haywood Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Macon Co, NC, son of James Moore  and June Stevenson .

 

      Children of Elizabeth Ann Bryson and Johial H L Moore were as follows:

      14         i      James A3 Moore , born 16 Dec 1844 in Macon Co, NC.

      15         ii      Lucinda Jane3 Moore , born 29 Dec 1847 in Macon Co, NC.  She married on 21 Dec 1873 in Cherokee Co, NC James Hamilton Passmore .

      16         iii      Jonathan B3 Moore , born 5 May 1853 in Macon Co, NC.

      17         iv      Thomas L3 Moore , born 6 Oct 1855 in Macon Co, NC.

      18         v      Henry W3 Moore , born 6 Dec 1857.  He married on 30 Mar 1884 Martha L Bryson , born 8 Apr 1861 in Macon Co, NC; died Nov 1919, daughter of Andrew Madison Bryson  and Jane Caroline Peek .

      19         vi      Charles L3 Moore , born 12 Oct 1860 in Macon Co, NC.

      20         vii      Rufus L3 Moore , born 15 Jun 1862 in Macon Co, NC.

 

 

4. Narcissa2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 20 Jan 1826 in Haywood Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died 21 Apr 1898 in Macon Co, NC; buried in Oak Ridge Meth, Macon Co, NC.  She married on 7 Nov 1846 in Macon Co, NC Lewis Marvel Angel , born 1 Jan 1820 in Buncombe Co, NC; died 26 Mar 1921 in Macon Co, NC; buried in Oak Ridge Meth, Macon Co, NC.

 

      Children of Narcissa Bryson and Lewis Marvel Angel were as follows:

      21         i      James E3 Angel , born 1846/47 in Macon Co, NC.  He married on 15 Sep 1869 in Jackson Co, NC Elmira Conley , born 1846/47 in NC.

      22         ii      M S3 Angel , born 1848/49 in Macon Co, NC.

      23         iii      Mary Ann3 Angel , born 1857/58 in Jackson Co, NC.

      24         iv      Thomas W3 Angel , born 16 Feb 1862 in Jackson Co, NC.

      25         v      Elizabeth J3 Angel , born 1864/65 in Jackson Co, NC.

      26         vi      Sallie C3 Angel , born 1867/68 in Jackson Co, NC.

 

 

5. Hugh Burton2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 2 Jan 1828 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died 1874/80 in GA or MO.  He married on 30 Sep 1847 in Macon Co, NC Elizabeth M Angel , born 1829/30 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

 

      Children of Hugh Burton Bryson and Elizabeth M Angel were as follows:

      27         i      Charlotte L3 Bryson , born 1848/49 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1870 in Macon Co, NC.

      28         ii      John W3 Bryson , born 1850/51 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      29         iii      Samuel L3 Bryson , born 1856/57 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      30         iv      Ella B3 Bryson , born 1857/58 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      31         v      James N3 Bryson , born 1860/61 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      32         vi      Andrew Coleman3 Bryson , born 1861/62 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      33         vii      Richard3 Bryson , born 1864/65 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      34         viii      Francis P3 Bryson , born 1866/67 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      35         ix      Elizabeth3 Bryson , born 1870 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

      36         x      Sarah "Sally"3 Bryson , born 1873/74 in GA; died aft 1880 in Phelps Co, MO.

 

 

6. William Virgil2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 15 Mar 1830 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1880 in Banks Co, GA.  He married on 27 Jul 1854 in Macon Co, NC Cynthia N Moore , born 1825/26 in Lincoln Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Banks Co, GA, daughter of Wallace Alexander Moore  and Sarah E Creasman .

 

      Children of William Virgil Bryson and Cynthia N Moore were as follows:

      37         i      Thomas Lenser3 Bryson , born 3 Dec 1856 in Macon Co, NC; died aft 1880 in Banks Co, GA.

      38         ii      Margaret Indiana3 Bryson , born 1856/57 in Macon Co, NC.

      39         iii      Sallie D3 Bryson , born 1861/62 in Macon Co, NC.

      40         iv      Arizona Virginia3 Bryson , born 1867/68 in GA.

 

 

8. Margaret Jane2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 13 May 1834 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  She married on 20 Feb 1855 in Macon Co, NC Francis Poindexter , born 1823/24 in Surry Co, NC.

 

      Children of Margaret Jane Bryson and Francis Poindexter were as follows:

      41         i      Nebraska Dee Montaloa3 Poindexter , born 18 Nov 1856 in Macon Co, NC.

 

 

9. Eliza Salome2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 2 Oct 1836 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1860 in Jackson Co, NC.  She married on 8 Jul 1858 in Jackson Co, NC A Wilson Tritt , born 1832/33 in NC; died aft 1860 in Jackson Co, NC.

 

      Children of Eliza Salome Bryson and A Wilson Tritt were as follows:

      42         i      Ellen J3 Tritt , born 1858/59 in Jackson Co, NC.

 

 

10. Marcus Weldon2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 22 Jul 1839 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died 29 Dec 1927 in Jackson Co, NC.  He married (1) on 18 Nov 1865 in Jackson Co, NC Mary Elizabeth Conley , born 1843/44 in Cherokee Co, NC, daughter of William H Conley  and Elizabeth Cockerham ; (2) on 11 Aug 1890 in Jackson Co, NC Mary Naomi Weaver , born 7 Dec 1854 in Ashe Co, NC; died 19 Dec 1922 in Webster, Jackson Co, NC, daughter of Hiram Weaver Rev  and Zilpha Ann Ashley .

 

      Children of Marcus Weldon Bryson and Mary Elizabeth Conley were as follows:

      43         i      Sterling T3 Bryson , born 1866/67 in Jackson Co, NC.

      44         ii      Jemima F3 Bryson , born 1868/69 in Jackson Co, NC.

      45         iii      Jane3 Bryson .

      46         iv      Jesse S3 Bryson , born 1873/74 in Jackson Co, NC.

      47         v      Hugh B3 Bryson , born 1880 in Jackson Co, NC.

      48         vi      D W3 Bryson .

      49         vii      Alice3 Bryson .

      50         viii      Lucy W3 Bryson .

      51         ix      William Jennings3 Bryson .

 

      Children of Marcus Weldon Bryson and Mary Naomi Weaver were as follows:

+    52         i      Lucy Weaver3 Bryson , born 14 Mar 1894 in Webster, Jackson Co, NC; died 10 Dec 1968 in Enka, NC.  She married Cassius Lafayette Burnette .

 

 

11. Richard M Johnston2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 8 Oct 1841 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  He married on 3 Nov 1867 in Jackson Co, NC Sarah J Fisher , born 1847/48 in NC.

 

      Children of Richard M Johnston Bryson and Sarah J Fisher were as follows:

      53         i      Texie M3 Bryson , born 1868/69 in Jackson Co, NC.

      54         ii      Zachariah3 Bryson , born 1871/72 in Jackson Co, NC.

      55         iii      Minnie E3 Bryson , born 1873/74 in Jackson Co, NC.

      56         iv      Maggie B3 Bryson , born 1877/78 in Jackson Co, NC.

 

 

12. Caran Happock2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 2 Apr 1844 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC); died aft 1880 in Jackson Co, NC.  She married on 7 Oct 1862 in Jackson Co, NC William B Davis , born 1841/42 in NC; died aft 1880 in Jackson Co, NC.

 

      Children of Caran Happock Bryson and William B Davis were as follows:

      57         i      Alabama3 Davis , born 1863/64 in Jackson Co, NC.

      58         ii      John B3 Davis , born 1865/66 in Jackson Co, NC.

      59         iii      Charles W3 Davis , born 1870/71 in Jackson Co, NC.

      60         iv      Robert3 Davis , born 1873/74 in Jackson Co, NC.

      61         v      Mary A3 Davis , born 1876/77 in Jackson Co, NC.

      62         vi      Madden D3 Davis , born 1879 in Jackson Co, NC.

 

 

13. Andrew Van Polk2 Bryson  (Jonathan M1), born 15 Jun 1847 in Macon Co, NC (now Jackson Co, NC).  He married (1) on 29 Jul 1877 in Jackson Co, NC Candace D Conley , born 1857 in Jackson Co, NC, daughter of William H Conley  and Elizabeth Cockerham ; (2) on 11 Jan 1885 M Ellen Snider .

 

      Children of Andrew Van Polk Bryson and M Ellen Snider were as follows:

      63         i      Dan W Bryson3 Bryson , born 3 Oct 1885.

      64         ii      Mark Hasling3 Bryson , born 22 Dec 1887.

      65         iii      Freddie Pender3 Bryson , born 29 Jun 1888.

      66         iv      Jesse Eugene3 Bryson , born 8 Aug 1890.


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